[ February 10, 2025 ] [ATLANTA] - Highland Rivers Behavioral Health CEO Melanie Dallas has been officially sworn in as a member of the state's Behavioral Health Reform and Innovation Commission (BHRIC). Governor Brian Kemp administered the oath during a ceremony at the State Capitol, attended by First Lady Marty Kemp and Kevin Tanner, Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, who continues as chair of BHRIC.

Commissioner Tanner praised Dallas's extensive experience in behavioral health, both operationally and on the front lines of care, highlighting her potential to significantly influence policy-making. "Her deep experience at Highland Rivers gives her a unique perspective that will help shape policies with real impact. As the Commission works to strengthen behavioral health in Georgia, Melanie's expertise will be invaluable," Tanner remarked.

Established by the Georgia General Assembly in 2019, BHRIC was formed to conduct a comprehensive review of the state's behavioral health system. The Commission's five subcommittees focus on child and adolescent behavioral health, involuntary commitment, hospital and short-term care facilities, mental health courts and corrections, and workforce and system development. BHRIC's annual reports have influenced significant legislative actions, including the unanimous passage of HB 1013, Georgia's Mental Health Parity Act, in 2022.

Dallas, with 37 years of experience and a background in counseling, expressed her commitment to advancing behavioral health in Georgia. "Behavioral health is a critical component of Georgia's healthcare system, impacting everyone in our state. I look forward to contributing to these important efforts to benefit all Georgians," said Dallas. She has been the CEO of Highland Rivers Behavioral Health since 2014, and her past roles include advisory positions with various state and national organizations.

Information from Press Release provided by Highland Rivers Behavioral Health